Lessons learned from a non‐traditional application process: Integrating user experiences to inform admission application design

Abstract

AbstractPurposeThe research aim was to gather applicant expectations and perspectives with a user‐centered approach during a pilot application process for a new dental school. The goal was to inform future admissions practices at our institution and for programs broadly.MethodsThe High Point University admission team developed an electronic application external to current centralized services that was launched from May to August 2022. Participants who completed the application were requested to complete an electronic survey of closed‐ and open‐ended questions about the factors influencing their application decisions, feedback about how to optimize the experience, and their overall satisfaction using a Net Promoter Score.ResultsA total of 303 applicants (79% response rate) completed the survey about their application experience. The most influential reason for applying to the program was the optional Dental Admissions Test requirement (43%). Participants frequently referenced a need for a more human‐centered process focused on the candidate rather than their numerical values and that the process should be smooth, straight‐forward, short, easy, and simple. Participants requested that experiences should be weighed the most in the application process followed by letters of recommendation. Most applicants were “promoters” (68%) for the program with a Net Promoter Score of 62. Moreover, 32% and 45% rated the application process as the best or better application experience compared to other programs.ConclusionPrograms can benefit from collecting applicant's (i.e., users) opinions and feedback about their expectations and experiences to inform more user‐centered application processes.